Hall of Union

The Hall of Union is an imperial pavilion in the Forbidden City positioned between the Palace of Heavenly Purity and the Palace of Earthly Tranquility. The square structure with a pyramidal roof houses a bronze water clock from 1745 and a mechanical clock from 1798, both originally used for timekeeping during palace activities.

Construction began during the Ming Dynasty between 1522 and 1566 as the complex expanded under imperial rule. After a fire in 1797 damaged the structure, it was restored and continues to stand as a testament to imperial architecture.

The hall served as the setting for imperial ceremonies where the empress received formal greetings from high-ranking court ladies during important festivals. These gatherings reflected the strict hierarchy and role of women within the imperial household.

The pavilion is easy to locate within the larger complex since it sits directly between two major halls and is visible from outside. Plan time to examine the clock mechanisms and architectural details, especially during morning light when visibility is best.

Twenty-five imperial jade seals were kept inside the pavilion and could only be moved or handled with explicit permission from the empress. These seals symbolized power and demonstrated the empress's control over important imperial matters.